2008 Dodge Dakota Brake Service (ONLINE REPAIR MANUALS)

Height Sensing Proportioning Valve

On these models the proportioning valve is not adjustable. Do not attempt to make adjustments.

Stop Lamp Switch

• Push and hold brake pedal in applied position.
• Push switch forward until fully seated against bracket.
• Release brake pedal.
• Lightly pull brake pedal rearward until master cylinder pushrod bottoms against master cylinder internal stop. This action will set switch plunger at proper stroke length.

Park Brake Cable Tensioner

Tensioner adjustment is only required when the tensioner, or a cable has been replaced or disconnected for service. To avoid fa...

Master Cylinder/Power Booster Test

• Start engine and inspect booster vacuum hose connections for leaks.
• Stop engine and shift transmission into neutral.
• Pump brake pedal until all vacuum reserve in booster is depleted.
• Press and hold brake pedal under light foot pressure. Pedal should hold firm. If it falls away master cylinder is faulty.
• Start engine and note pedal action. Pedal should fall away slightly under light foot pressure, then hold firm.
• If no pedal action is felt, the power booster, vacuum supply or vacuum check valve are faulty. Proceed to "Power Booster Vacuum Test."
• If p...

Brake Drums

Any time the brake drums are removed for brake service, the braking surface diameter should be inspected with a suitable brake drum micrometer at several points to determine if they are within the safe oversize limit stamped on the brake drum outer surface. If the braking surface diameter exceeds specifications, the drum must be replaced. If the braking surface diameter is within specifications, drums should be cleaned and inspected for cracks, scores, deep grooves, taper, out of round and heat spotting. If drums are cracked or heat spotted, they must be replaced. Minor sc...

When working on or around brake assemblies, care must be taken to prevent breathing asbestos dust, as many manufacturers incorporate asbestos fibers in the production of brake linings. During routine service operations, the amount of asbestos dust from brake lining wear is at a low level due to a chemical breakdown during use, and a few precautions will minimize exposure. Do not sand or grind brake linings unless suitable local exhaust ventilation equipment is used to prevent excessive asbestos ex...

These self contained vacuum hydraulic power braking units are of the vacuum suspended type. They use engine intake manifold vacuum or a vacuum pump along with atmospheric pressure for their power, eliminating the need for a vacuum reservoir. A mechanically operated control valve, with integral vacuum power diaphragms, controls the degree of brake application or release depending on amount of foot pressure applied to...

Brake System Bleed

Manual Bleed

• Remove reservoir filler caps and fill reservoir with proper brake fluid.
• If calipers or wheel cylinders were overhauled, open all caliper and wheel cylinder bleed screws.
• Close each bleed screw as fluid starts to drip from them.
• Fill master cylinder reservoir once more before proceeding.
• Attach one end of bleed hose to bleed screw and insert opposite end in glass container partially filled with brake fluid, Fig. . Ensure bleed hose is immersed in fluid.
• Open up bleeder, then have an assistant press down brake pedal.
• Once brake pedal is down, close bleeder....